- Published:
- Friday 22 November 2024
This year school leavers can celebrate the end of their school journey knowing they will be supported in a safe and positive environment – with parents and families confident that the Allan Labor Government is providing safety and wellbeing resources.
Minister for Youth Natalie Suleyman today announced the return of the Safer School Leavers Program for young people marking the end of their school years across the Surf Coast Shire, Mornington Peninsula Shire, and Bass Coast Shire in 2024.
As part of the initiative, the three local government areas will share $50,000 in funding from the Labor Government to enhance local safety programs. This includes safety services and information on the use of alcohol and other drugs, access to mental health services, security services and transport for young people.
Funding also supports Red Frogs, a volunteer-based organisation, to host barbeques, provide breakfasts, and supply free drinking water in safe spaces where young people gather.
In 2023, the Safer School Leavers Program engaged more than 5,400 young people through the Wellbeing Safety Response team on the Mornington Peninsula. The team provided critical support for intoxication, first aid, substance abuse, mental health crises, assault, and supported police and victims of crime.
On the Surf Coast, more than 19,400 interactions were logged in 2023, and close to 6,000 young people were transported safely to their accommodations across the Mornington Peninsula and Surf Coast, through buses arranged by the response team.
Thanks to the Labor Government’s work, school leavers and their families can now celebrate with greater safety and peace of mind.
Quote attributable to Minister for Youth Natalie Suleyman
“The Safer School Leavers Program continues to make a real difference – allowing young people to create life-long memories, in a safer environment.”